What is an ORCID identifier?
An ORCID (Open Researcher and Contributor ID) is a unique, persistent digital identifier that aims to distinguish individual researchers and scholars. ORCID provides a 16-digit ID number that remains the same throughout a researcher's career, regardless of name changes, institutional affiliation changes, or multiple versions of the name used in publications.
Who manages ORCID?
ORCID is a non-profit organization funded by membership fees from participating institutions. It is a community-driven initiative, overseen by a board of directors. The registry launched in 2012 and has more than 8 million active researchers (from 250 countries) and nearly 1,400 organization members as of July 2024. Learn more about ORCID's organizational structure, mission, vision, values, and goals at https://info.orcid.org/what-is-orcid/
What is the purpose of an ORCID iD?
ORCID helps differentiate researchers with similar names.
ORCID assists with career tracking by linking all research output in one place, including articles, datasets, and grants.
ORCID is used by publishers, funders, government agencies, research organizations, and universities to streamline workflows (e.g., manuscript submissions, grant applications).
ORCID is widely accepted in academia and research communities worldwide.
Even if a researcher changes institutions or fields, the ORCID associated with the researcher remains the same. However, it's important that researchers regularly update their ORCID profile metadata to reflect changes in their name, education, or institutional affiliation.
Who uses ORCID?
Faculty members tracking their scholarly outputs (e.g., publications, datasets, code, etc.).
Graduate students building an academic profile.
Researchers applying for grants and funding.
Authors/Creators submitting work to journals and conferences.
